Bill Tobin, a blues music fan, is driven to help raise funds for the planned Veterans Memorial in El Dorado Hills.

"Last year my son was in the thick of it in Afghanistan and organizing this event was very personal for me," Tobin said. "Now all of El Dorado Hills witnessed the homecoming of a fallen hero a few months ago, which brings a special significance to the event this year for all of us."

Slated for Saturday, Nov. 10, the festival is now in its third year and has grown.

"There were about 300 attending last year," Tobin said. "We expect a good turnout, especially considering how the community has been so supportive of veterans, and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country."

Presented by the Rotary Club of El Dorado Hills, the concert is held in the El Dorado Hills Community Services Gym at 1021 Harvard Way. Tickets are $25.

"Blues & Brews gives locals a chance to celebrate and honor our veterans, active service and fallen warriors," Tobin said. "There will be several organizations with tables and information. The Freedom Quilt, signed by thousands of military members and veterans, will be on display. We also honor POW/MIA with a special table."

Local craft brews by The American River Brewing Co, some local wines, and small plates by West Coast Events will also be available for an extra charge.

"The musicians love this event," Tobin said. :After last year's show, John Lee Hooker Jr. was so inspired by the great spirit of Blues and Brews that he wrote a song 'You'll be my Hero' in honor of our service members past and present and included it on his latest (album)."
Many veterans also attend the event, Tobin said.

Blues and Brews is a fundraiser for The El Dorado Hills Veterans Memorial. The memorial will contain custom crafted monuments, a garden, a ceremony area and the “100 Year Journey” where, along a winding path, visitors will pass exhibits representing 100 years of U.S. conflict history, from World War I through the present day, according to organizers.

Headlining this year is an all-female blues revue, The Red Hot Mamas. Opening the show is The Used Blues Band. Learn more about the event at edhblues.com.